PLDT Inc. has obtained the consent of indigenous communities in Palawan for its submarine cable project, a key step toward enhancing connectivity in the region. The telecommunications giant announced that it secured the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) from the Tagbanua and Pala'wan indigenous groups, who occupy areas where the cable will be laid.
The project, which involves laying fiber-optic cables along the seabed, aims to improve internet access and reliability in Palawan, a province known for its remote islands and tourist destinations. PLDT collaborated with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to ensure compliance with legal requirements for projects affecting ancestral lands.
"This is a milestone in our commitment to bridge the digital divide while respecting the rights and cultural heritage of indigenous communities," said a PLDT spokesperson. The company emphasized that the FPIC process involved multiple consultations, community meetings, and the signing of a memorandum of agreement outlining benefits and safeguards for the indigenous groups.
Under the agreement, PLDT will provide livelihood programs, educational support, and infrastructure improvements as part of its social responsibility commitments. The cable project is expected to boost connectivity in Palawan, supporting local businesses, education, and healthcare services.
Local leaders welcomed the development, citing the potential for economic growth and better access to digital services. However, they stressed the importance of continuous dialogue to ensure that the project proceeds with full respect for indigenous rights and environmental sustainability.